Irene Graham (Graham) Keener

Irene Graham Keener of Amelia, VA passed away peacefully on March 15, 2017.  She was born in New Orleans, LA on October 25, 1933. Irene was preceded in death by her parents, Dale & Dorothy Graham of New Orleans, LA, and her husband Charles E. Keener of Amelia, VA.  She is survived by her three sons Dale Keener (Luisa) of Williamsburg, VA, Michael Keener of Amelia, VA and David Keener (Debbie) of Amelia, VA; Five grandchildren; Benjamin, Samantha, and Erin Keener of Williamsburg VA, Eric Keener (Bonnie) of Amelia, and Gary Keener (Jennifer) of Amelia; and two great grandchildren Michael Keener and Waylon Keener. In 1952, Irene graduated from the Louise S. Mc Gehee School for Girls in New Orleans.  She attended Pine Manor Jr. College of Wellesley, Massachusetts, Newcomb Woman’s College of New Orleans, and graduated from Gulf Park College for Woman, in Gulfport, Mississippi.  In the years following their marriage, Irene and Charles lived in Jackson, Mississippi, and New Orleans, before moving in 1967 to Amelia Court House with their 3 sons.  Over the years Irene worked at Claire’s Dept. Store, The Virginia House of Delegates, Librarian and activities aide at Piedmont Geriatric Hospital in Burkeville, and several very happy years as Library Manager at Amelia Academy. Irene enjoyed and appreciated the association and friendship of many of Amelia’s citizens.  Her life was filled with her work and pursuing a variety of activities that interested her.  The one that gave her the most fulfillment was the role she played in the conception and establishment of the James L. Hamner Public Library. She was elected as the Library’s first Chairman of the “Board of Trustees” and served in that capacity for the first four years of its significant beginnings.  A memorial service will be held at 1PM on Saturday March 18, 2017 at the Hillsman-Hix Funeral Home 16409 Court St. in Amelia, Va. with private interment for the convenience of the family.  The family will receive friends beginning at 11:30-1:00 at the funeral home.  Condolences at www.hillsmanhix.com

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